Business Details
21 Years
experience
Premier Irish Dance School in Exeter, NH
Founded in 2005, Murray Academy has been dedicated to bringing the art and sport of Irish step dancing to the Seacoast Region of New Hampshire. Our mission is to help students realize their full potential through a structured program that emphasizes technical excellence, personal growth, and cultural appreciation. Led by TCRG-certified director Anne Murray MacRitchie, our team of experienced instructors provides tailored training for dancers of all levels, from Pre-Beginners aged 3-5 to competitive champions. We foster a supportive environment where students develop lifelong skills including discipline, teamwork, and performance confidence.With a proven track record of producing regional, national, and world-class competitors, we combine rigorous technical instruction with opportunities for creative expression through annual workshops and school-sponsored events. Our students consistently achieve podium placements at prestigious competitions like the North American Championships and World Championships, reflecting our commitment to excellence. We prioritize both individual achievement and community building, ensuring each dancer gains physical fitness, self-assurance, and lasting friendships through their Irish dance journey.
Services
Irish Dance Classes
Competitive Training
Workshops
Team Programs
Performance Coaching
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- TCRG-certified director with 20+ years competitive experience
- Proven track record with 40+ NAIDC qualifiers and 12 world medalists
- Structured curriculum from Pre-Beginner to Championship levels
- Annual masterclasses with internationally recognized instructors
- Balanced focus on technical excellence and personal development
Associations and certifications
- An Coimisiun Le Rince Gaelacha
What people say
Award-winning instructors
Supportive community
Proven competition results
Positive learning environment
Skilled teaching staff
Services
Irish Dance Classes
Structured classes for ages 3-5 focus on coordination and basic steps through playful activities. Older students progress through technical levels with certified instructors. Classes emphasize proper form, rhythm, and cultural appreciation while building confidence through performance opportunities.
Competitive Training
Comprehensive preparation for regional and international competitions. Includes solo and team coaching, performance strategy, and competition etiquette. Students receive personalized feedback to refine technique and stage presence for championship-level success at events like NAIDC and World Championships.
Workshops
Specialized training sessions led by guest instructors from renowned dance academies. Focuses on advanced techniques, choreography, and performance skills. Provides unique learning opportunities beyond regular curriculum with industry experts who have trained world medalists.
Team Programs
Co-ed ceili and figure team training for competitive and recreational dancers. Develops teamwork, synchronization, and stagecraft through collaborative performances. Teams regularly place in top positions at regional and national competitions, including multiple podium finishes at NERO.
Performance Coaching
Individualized coaching to enhance stage presence and performance quality. Covers costume selection, music interpretation, and competition mindset. Helps dancers build confidence through mock performances and constructive feedback to ensure polished, memorable presentations at all events.
People
Anne Murray MacRitchie
Founder & Director
TCRG-certified instructor with 20+ years competitive experience. Two-time Mid-West regional champion and former Burke School instructor. Trained hundreds of students including world medalists. Member of Irish Dancing Teachers Associations of New England and North America.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We offer classes for children aged 3-5 (Pre-Beginners) through competitive levels up to championship. No prior experience needed for introductory classes.
Do you offer competitive dance programs?
Yes, our structured competitive program has produced multiple regional, national, and world championship medalists with personalized coaching for solo and team competitions.
What qualifications do your instructors have?
Director Anne Murray MacRitchie holds TCRG certification from An Coimisiun Le Rince Gaelacha. All instructors have competitive experience and teaching certifications.
How do students progress through levels?
Students advance through technical proficiency and competition placements. Movement between levels requires instructor approval based on skill mastery and competition readiness.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes, we offer annual workshops with guest instructors, school-sponsored events, and regular performance showcases for all students throughout the year.
